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Phd In Biotechnology Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Principal Data Scientist

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$175K - $215K/yr

... PhD) in a quantitative field -- biology, computer science, engineering, or related Experience * 5+ years of post-graduate experience in life sciences analytics in pharma, biotech, or consulting

Sr. AI Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$118K - $162K/yr

An advanced degree (MS or PhD) in a relevant area (i.e. Neural Networks, Foundation Model, Agentic ... Long standing experience in the Life Science, Diagnostics, Biotechnology or Tech Industry ...

Sr. AI Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$118K - $162K/yr

An advanced degree (MS or PhD) in a relevant area (i.e. Neural Networks, Foundation Model, Agentic ... Long standing experience in the Life Science, Diagnostics, Biotechnology or Tech Industry ...

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Phd In Biotechnology information

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$17

$33

$44

How much do phd in biotechnology jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for phd in biotechnology in Washington is $33.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.85 and $37.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a PhD in Biotechnology?

To thrive as a PhD in Biotechnology, you need advanced knowledge in molecular biology, genetics, and bioengineering, supported by a doctoral degree in biotechnology or a related field. Proficiency with laboratory techniques, data analysis software, and research methodologies, as well as familiarity with tools like CRISPR and next-generation sequencing, is essential. Strong critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you lead research projects and collaborate across multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualities are crucial for driving innovation, ensuring research quality, and translating findings into real-world applications.

What jobs can you get with a PhD in biotechnology?

A PhD in biotechnology qualifies individuals for roles such as research scientist, bioprocess engineer, or biotech project manager. These positions often involve laboratory work, data analysis, and product development in industries like pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and healthcare, requiring strong analytical skills and knowledge of laboratory techniques and regulatory standards.

Is a PhD in biotechnology worth it?

A PhD in biotechnology can lead to advanced research, development, and academic roles, often requiring strong laboratory skills and knowledge of molecular biology and bioinformatics. While it offers opportunities in pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and biotech companies, it typically involves several years of study and research investment, and job prospects depend on industry demand and individual expertise.

What types of career advancement opportunities can I expect after completing a PhD in Biotechnology?

After earning a PhD in Biotechnology, you can pursue various advancement paths depending on your interests and expertise. Many graduates transition into senior research roles in academia or industry, often leading research teams or projects. Others move into specialized areas such as regulatory affairs, intellectual property, or business development within biotech companies. Teaching positions at universities or roles in government agencies and policy organizations are also common. Networking, publishing research, and gaining experience in interdisciplinary projects can further enhance your advancement prospects.

What is a PhD in Biotechnology?

A PhD in Biotechnology is a doctoral-level degree focused on advanced research in the application of biological systems and organisms to develop products and processes for various industries. Students in this program engage in original research, often in areas like genetics, molecular biology, pharmaceuticals, and environmental biotechnology. The program typically involves coursework, laboratory work, and the completion of a dissertation. Graduates are prepared for careers in academia, research institutions, biotechnology companies, and regulatory agencies. Earning a PhD in this field demonstrates expertise and the ability to contribute to scientific innovation.

What is the difference between Phd In Biotechnology vs Biotech Research Scientist?

AspectPhd In BiotechnologyBiotech Research Scientist
Required CredentialsDoctorate in Biotechnology or related fieldTypically a Master's or PhD in Biotechnology or related field
Work EnvironmentAcademic, research institutions, or industry R&D labsIndustry laboratories, biotech companies, research institutions
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, biotech firmsBiotech and pharmaceutical companies, research organizations
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding academic vs industry roles in biotechCareer paths and qualifications in biotech research

While a Phd In Biotechnology is a research-focused degree preparing individuals for academic or advanced industry roles, a Biotech Research Scientist is a professional role within biotech companies or labs. Both require strong research skills, but the PhD emphasizes academic research, whereas the Research Scientist applies those skills in industry settings.

What can I do with a PhD in biotechnology?

A PhD in biotechnology prepares individuals for research and development roles in academia, industry, or government, focusing on areas like genetic engineering, pharmaceuticals, and bioinformatics. Graduates often work as research scientists, biotechnologists, or product developers, utilizing laboratory skills, scientific knowledge, and data analysis tools. Advanced positions may also involve project management, regulatory compliance, and innovation in biotech applications.

What are popular job titles related to Phd In Biotechnology jobs in Washington?

For Phd In Biotechnology jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Phd In Biotechnology jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Phd In Biotechnology job openings:

Infographic showing various Phd In Biotechnology job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,366 per year, or $33.3 per hour.

Director, Bacterial Vaccine Discovery

AstraZeneca

Gaithersburg, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


AstraZeneca rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

22nd of 86 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

The Director of Bacterial Vaccine Discovery in Early Infectious Disease leads efforts to discover and develop bacterial vaccines, including carbohydrate conjugate, mRNA, and protein-based approaches. The individual will lead a team of scientists in discovering and characterizing novel bacterial vaccines to build and advance the portfolio. The team will collaborate across groups within Bacterial Vaccines to identify effective vaccine candidates and fully characterize their immunogenicity and efficacy in preclinical disease models. The role also requires influencing senior internal stakeholders in Research, Bioprocess Development, and Regulatory Affairs, as well as managing external academic collaborations and contract research organizations to deliver the early vaccine portfolio.
Accountabilities
  • Lead a team of scientists to discover and characterize candidate vaccine antigens, delivering robust in vitro and in vivo research packages that support pipeline progression and regulatory interactions.

  • Serve as subject matter expert and research lead for multiple programs, presenting strategy and data to senior leaders at governance meetings.

  • Present key findings and research progress at top-tier scientific conferences.

  • Partner with Early Vaccines and Immune Therapies Translational Sciences to develop and transfer assays for characterizing immune responses in future clinical trials.

  • Oversee and maintain accountability for partnerships with third parties, including academic institutions and biotech collaborators.

  • Evaluate external science and partnering opportunities in collaboration with Business Development and the extended scientific team to expand the bacterial vaccine pipeline.

  • Engage regularly with intellectual property attorneys to define and refine IP strategy for early-stage programs.

  • Build and foster effective relationships with senior leaders across Research, Biochemistry, Bioinformatics, Clinical and Translational Medicine, and Global Project Teams to ensure cross-functional alignment.

  • Ensure clear and objective communication of results, associated risks, uncertainties, and limitations across all projects and teams within the function.

  • Define training and development opportunities for junior colleagues in line with best practices and scientific principles.

Qualifications
  • PhD in microbiology, immunology, molecular biology, biochemistry, or a related discipline, with 8+ years of industry experience.

  • Proven leadership experience managing a team of junior scientists (PhD and non-PhD level).

  • Strong track record in bacterial vaccine research and/or bacterial pathogenesis.

  • Demonstrated experience leading efforts to characterize immune responses and protective efficacy of vaccine antigens in small animal disease models.

  • Familiarity with functional immunological assays, such as opsonophagocytic killing assays and serum bactericidal assays, used to measure vaccine-elicited immune responses.

  • Cross-functional collaboration experience, successfully delivering research and development programs in a biotech or pharmaceutical setting.

  • Experience supporting or leading interdisciplinary vaccine discovery or development programs from early research through candidate selection.

  • Proven ability to develop and manage budgets for research programs and external partnerships.

  • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with strong business analysis and consultancy capabilities.

The annual base pay for this position ranges from $172,466.40 - $258,699.60. Hourly and salaried non-exempt employees will also be paid overtime pay when working qualifying overtime hours. Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. In addition, our positions offer a short-term incentive bonus opportunity; eligibility to participate in our equity-based long-term incentive program (salaried roles), to receive a retirement contribution (hourly roles), and commission payment eligibility (sales roles). Benefits offered included a qualified retirement program [401(k) plan]; paid vacation and holidays; paid leaves; and, health benefits including medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans. Additional details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment. If hired, employee will be in an "at-will position" and the Company reserves the right to modify base pay (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.
Date Posted
16-Jul-2026
Closing Date
22-Jul-2026
Our mission is to build an inclusive environment where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and employees. In furtherance of that mission, we welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their protected characteristics. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please complete the corresponding section in the application form.

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